Gilad fans should check out this video. One of Gilad's trademarks is his use of exotic outdoor locations, and this one is no exception. As the title makes clear, the setting is Jerusalem, rather than Hawaii. The workout is a compilation from episodes of his Bodies in Motion show, and is filmed on a rooftop overlooking the city. There is a lot of local flavor, with a live band playing Middle-Eastern style music, a bellydancer, and a man and his camel. The camel is cute and is featured prominently throughout the video. The cast is made up of locals; all appear to be young, fit, and having fun. The only familiar face from Gilad's cast of regulars is his mother, who appears in several segments. On a couple of occasions she takes a wrong step, and I found Gilad's interaction with her rather endearing.

The workout begins with a warm up, followed by about 5 minutes of standing lower body toning and some upper body toning for the shoulders and back. Gilad does not use any weights, although you can if you like. I don't use weights, as I do this workout primarily for the cardio benefit. However, I have on occasion used a Dynaband for the upper body work.

The cardio section runs for 25 minutes, and has high and low impact moves. As you can expect from Gilad, there is no fancy footwork, just basic calesthenics-style aerobics. Since this is a compilation, the aerobic workout is broken up into separate segments from different episodes, and I find that the variety holds my interest.

Following the aerobics is a 15 minute segment of abdominal work and a short floorwork routine. The workout concludes with a cool down and stretch, which is too short for my tastes, so I just add on here.

This is a workout that will be best enjoyed by Gilad fans, and advanced beginners or intermediates who don't want dancy steps. Advanced exercisers who don't need complex footwork may also enjoy this one, and could add more intensity to the routine, or do it as is for a lighter day. As an intermediate, I find this to be an enjoyable workout that raises my heart rate without leaving me completely worn out by the end.

Instructor Comments:
Gilad is one of my favorite instructors, and his good personality really shows here. He is always enthusiastic and motivating in the drill instructor style, yet at the same time non-intimidating, easy-going and cheerful. He is very handsome and charming. In his videos, Gilad typically has a good rapport with his cast, with just enough friendly banter and good-natured teasing to make him seem approachable, without becoming annoying after repeat viewings. He has a good sense of humor.

Mary K.